Datuk Seri Najib Questions motive behind Dr Asri’s arrest (“The DrMaza Fiasco”)

The StarOnline reports that the PM has questioned the motive behind Dr Mohd Asri’s arrest.  The PM reportedly said:

“Najib said that Dr Mohd Asri was a truthful speaker whose talks were always backed by proof and clear dalil (quaranic and Hadith verses).
“I don’t know what is the motive of the arrest. It was done by the state religious agency. It has nothing to do with the Federal Government,” he told reporters on Monday after launching a Pasar Tani convention”

While it is comforting to hear the PM assure the public that the “DrMaza Fiasco” has nothing to do with the Federal Government, it is disturbing to hear the entry of Jakim into this fiasco. Jakim is a Federal Institution and any act by Jakim will certainly be interpreted as having the tacit or direct approval of the federal Government.

It now appears that a Jakim officer has alleged that the undergraduate degree obtained by Dr Asri is false!!! This is a serious allegation and one wonders why this is now made in the heat of the “Dr Maza Fiasco”? Is something brewing behind the closed religious doors of Malaysia which the public in general and the Muslim public in particular do not know about?

If the Federal Government does not set the record straight by taking bold actions, the public perception will move in one direction.

Dr Asri’s unthinkable arrest is the tip of the iceberg and a trailer of a greater show to come.

What is more worrisome is the question – do our leaders know what is going on behind the very tightly closed doors of the powerful religious corridors? I have raised this matter many times over the past many years to many leaders (ministers, prime ministers and a deputy minister – will not mention names) but they seem to be in the blur and/or too “fearful” to interfere where the word “Islam” is uttered. Only last month, I have raised the need for Muslim political leaders to be aware of the trend “Islam” is taking in this country and the quiet but effective quest for control over the Malays by non-elected individuals with the religious tag. I will call this “hidden group” as “religious dominators”.

There appears to be a hidden movement to convert this country into a type “Islamic state” as dictated by the religious dominators. It is as if a conspiracy has been going on under the very noses of the public and the leaders. One day we may wake up in a country that we do not recognize – and this includes the Muslims! I am sincerely afraid that the current crop of leaders does not seem to understand the issues and the gravity of the movement. At the end, the sensible and peace loving people may suffer.

It is of concern to the Muslim populace of this country because the unthinkable conclusion is that the determination of “things Islamic” is completely in the hands of paid “religious civil servants”.  It is frightening that while in all areas we are clamoring for accountability and transparency, in matters concerning Islam (and I am a Muslim), those who are given the responsibility (and paid to do so) to “develop things Islamic” are going about it in a much unseen manner.

Are political leaders impotent when the people voice out their views on “matters Islamic”? I think people generally want to see the Government showing leadership, and under Najib, it appears to be showing some signs of leadership but in areas touching religion – what happened?

It is about time that we seriously, honestly and intellectually address the issue of where “Islam” is going in this country and “who” is dictating its form in the larger interests of those who want to practice Islam in peace and the Nation.

Dr Asri, I wish you strength in this test.

Peace!

Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin arrested !!! Religious power play at work or politics?

The nation was shocked this morning with news of the arrest of Dr Asri Zainul Abidin, the former Mufti of Perlis. Dr Asri is popular with many people in the country for his moderate and sensible approach to Islam. Apparently, Dr Asri was giving a lecture in a bungalow attended by about 100 people in Ulu Klang from 8 pm.  According to Utusan Online, a team of police officers and Jais officers were outside the bungalow from 8 pm and entered the bungalow at 9.30pm.

Initial reports say that he was arrested at 12 midnight for delivering a religious lecture without certification (“tauliah”) - notwithstanding his credentials as a former State Mufti!!! (ordinary Muslims – watch out!) His statement was recorded for almost an hour at the Ulu Klang police station.

The number of police personnel and Jais officers that were present to arrest this former Mufti is mind-boggling – one would think Dr Asri is a dangerous criminal! Anyone who knows him will know that he is a mild mannered man with smiles all the time.

What is more mind boggling is the report that his earlier Jais bond (release) on the charge of section 119 of the Enakmen Pentadbiran Agama Islam Selangor has been replaced with an agreement to meet up with the Jais officers at a date to be fixed. Couldn’t Jais have met up with Dr Asri earlier? Why embarrass and trouble the man?

Another thing: Jais Head of Public Relations, Mohd Hidayat Abd Rani apparently told Malaysiakini that the arrest of Dr Asri is due to complaints received from the public for the past three years. That Dr Asri has been giving lectures without certification (tauliah). Then why was he not charged? Shouldn’t Jais be prepared if indeed there is proof of his wrong doing according to the Selangor Syariah Enakments?

 

MStarOnline further reports this:

“Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Jamil Khir Baharom menggesa pihak Jabatan Agama Islam Selangor (JAIS) untuk memberikan keterangan berhubung isu penangkapan dan tuduhan yang dibuat terhadap bekas Mufti Perlis, Dr Asri Zainol Abidin”.

Apparently, Dr Asri was asked to be present in court in the morning which he did, but Jais  arrived late in the afternoon!  What is happening? Jais has to explain clearly to the people what it is up to. 

Surely even a religious department must have accountability to the people since it is funded by the people and their actions concerns the people.

People are watching.

More news on Dr Asri’s arrest on the following links:

http://www.mstar.com.my/berita/cerita.asp?file=/2009/11/2/mstar_berita/20091102145338&sec=mstar_berita

http://drmaza.com/home/?p=777

The video of his arrest (please observe the number of police personnel deployed!):

Peace !

Islam Hadhari – What happened?

Ahmad, Ah Chong and Raju were at their favourite coffee shop where the following conversation took place.

Ah Chong: I like this new government policy la…. 1Malaysia. Good to remind us that we are all one Malaysians.

Ahmad: pelik isn’t it? We are all Malaysians and after more than 50 years, we have to be reminded again that we are one Malaysians!

Raju: Ya bro. Last 2 years so much tension in the country! Got religious issues la, got racial issues la, got so many demonstrations, ketuanan Melayu, ketuanan Rakyat, man type of ketuanan la…

Ahmad : Again pelik isn’t it? Got so much tension that time when the policy was Islam Hadhari. How come?

Ah Chong : yaa hor? Woi what happened to Islam hadhari? Wa..last time, everybody talk about Islam hadhari, got restaurant named Islam hadhari, got klinik named Islam Hadhari, got so many seminars and conference on Islam Hadhari…everything on government television also must say on Islam Hadhari….

Raju: yes la friends….it was a government policy which means all the cabinet members must have agreed to it. What happened to all the penyokong-penyokong Islam hadhari in the cabinet today?

Ahmad: Ala..bukan nya orang politik saja braders. Many orang agama also singing praises about Islam hadhari. If you go to the book shop today…you can still find books on Islam hadhari written by so-called ulamaks from Middle eastern Universities. But today all them so silent….just a matter of hardly 11 months!

Ah Chong, scratching his head: Hmm..politician I can understand la..they have no fixed principle one…can dance to the wind..but orang agama …how come they can change their mind?

Ahmad : Ah chong…you will be surprised la. Many orang agama sembah duit and pangkat and not Tuhan la. They can be easily bought with titles and money.

Raju: Friends, can you imagine….how much money was spent in the name of Islam hadhari…so…all that rakyat’s money wasted la?

Ahmad: sure la. All the money gone down the drain – our money. Politicians coin up slogans to konon nya mark their presence. Lagi pun, in our country, Islam is politicized. So Malay based party like UMNO and PAS will have to out-Islam each other la. Otherwise why you think Arabic sounding words sells like hot cakes in politics? You never realize ah…before every speech, each Malay politician will recite some long Arabic statements even though the audience tak faham?

Raju: Ahmad, not nice la you are a Malay and talk like that.

Ahmad: No la Raju. I am a Muslim. Of course I feel sad when my religion is being prostituted by hypocritical politicians. I fear Allah will punish them severely and our country for taking Allah’s name in vain.

A Chong: How come the cabinet members got no shame? They can just twist their tongue when one policy change to another? Today they support Islam hadhari, then tomorrow, throw it out! Haiya! Ini macam also got one.

Ahmad: nak hidup brothers! Last last, Rakyat is the in the one that is diperbodohkan and their money wasted. But the trouble is, when it comes to Islam, many of the Muslims do not want to find out about the religion themselves. Mereka ni terlalu bergantung pada orang politik dan orang agama. Malas nak baca dan memahami Quran dengan sendiri. So, kena tipu la.

Raju: Ya la braders….in our country so difficult to find people with the real perjuangan spirit. And those in politics for sure go no perjuangan spirit. Semua nak nama, pangkat dan harta only.

Ah Chong: Raju, you sound very pessimistic la. I know a few politician friends who are ok.

Ahmad: All I know is, if we want our country to prosper, be safe and available to the future generation, we the Rakyat must always watch every move of the politicians. Never trust them with our and our childrens' future. We, the People, must be the boss.


Peace !

Nik Aziz, Hadi and Najib: Malay and Muslim Unity?

Nik Aziz calls for EGM to determine whether Hadi, Hasan Ali and Nasharuddin Mat Isa should still be part of the leadership of PAS?

The call for mating between PAS and UMNO has resurfaced again. This call seemed to have irked PAS’s spiritual leader, Nik Aziz so much that he has called for an EGM to settle the matter once and for all. Obviously, he is not happy with the idea of the mating between the two Malay parties and he is also unhappy with Hadi Awang’s leadership of PAS. Nik Aziz writes on his blog:

“Maka pelik apa, kita panggil mesyuarat parti yang tergempar misalnya; mungkin dipanggil muktamar khaslah. Kalau nak kirakan, kitalah yang sepatut buat dulu. Demi “tajdid” kita perlu buat Mesyuarat Agong Luarbiasa ini. Bila Mesyuarat Agong tak mahu tukar Presiden, misalnya maka tidak mengapalah. Kita pakat-pakat belalah. Begitu juga dengan isu-isu disekitar Hassan Ali atau Mustafa Ali yang tak habis-habis dengan nak bekerjasama PAS dengan Umno ke arah kerajaan Perpaduan atau UG. Tenggelam-tenggelam, timbul, kemudian dihidupkan. Kemudian dimatikan pula bila nampak orang marah. Apa ni?”

His views are very clear. He is not happy with the pro-UMNO group in PAS. In fact his writings even hint that if the EGM still endorses Hadi Awang, he may leave PAS –“Kita pakat-pakat bela la”. Those open to the idea of PAS-UMNO Unity talks with the view of “forming a unity government or some working relationship seem to base their call on the noble sounding premise of “Malay and Muslim unity”. Admittedly, this is a very nice label that will touch the sentiments of both Malays and Muslims, especially the ordinary Malay Muslims of this country.

Najib too has commented on the unity government move but was clear to say that the nature of the cooperation has yet to be identified:

“He said that another group of leaders, who was willing to find ways to enhance unity among the ummah, was more inclined towards cooperating with Umno.

"What types of cooperation is not defined but they don't want to see disunity," he said”.

Obviously, any right thinking Muslim or non-Muslim, be they Malaysians or non-Malaysians do not want to see any disunity. People generally are not anarchists. Malaysians generally want to be united so that we can go about peacefully with the arduous task of living.

So what than really distinguishes this form of unity than the larger unity among Malaysians? The quick and simplistic answer which the politicians and the self anointed “Malay and Muslim champions” will give is probably this: “unity of the ummah” or “perpaduan umat”. Now, what is this? What do the politicians mean when they say this?

After all, we must always remember that we are not dealing with true blooded reformers but mere politicians where circumstances have catapulted them to positions of political power.

Unity of the Ummah?

Allow me at the very outset to state that I personally do not for a second believe that the politicians from all sides of the divide truly care about nor have they thought about what “unity of the ummah” really is. I believe (and I stand be corrected) that what they really mean is elitist Malay political unity. Effectively and in realpolitik terms what this means is the strengthening of Malay elitist political dominance in the country, which has nothing really to do with neither the ordinary Malays nor Muslims.

I can support this view simply by pointing out that to date, none of the parties have ever spoken on any Islamic issues or any reforms (tajdid) of “Islamic thinking” in the country when they speak of the so-called “cooperation between two Malay Muslim parties”. The moment you invoke Islam as a basis of unity, you must start from the premise of the Quran and the Sunnah of the prophet. And this what Allah says in the Quran:

“And hold fast, all together, to the rope of God, and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude God's favour on you; for you were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, you became brethren; and you were on the brink of the pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does God make His Signs clear to you: That you may be guide”d. (Quran: 3.103)

Firstly, Muslims are required to hold onto the “rope of God”. Has both sides of the divide spent some time thinking what this “rope of God” is? Have the leaders, in their respective parties, in true honesty and with thinking knowledge implemented this concept of “rope of God” in its true sense? One thing must be clear, the rope of God does not refer to mere expedient political solidarity. It may include political “unity” but the buck certainly does not stop there. If it did, then, what about the greater number of Muslims who are apolitical? For example, there are greater number of Muslims who are not politically inclined but perform deeds that may fall into the category mentioned in surah 3 verse 104 – the numerous individuals and NGOs who peacefully contribute to the best of their ability?

Further, God says the following:

“Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity”. (Quran: 3.104)

Be not like those who are divided amongst themselves and fall into disputations after receiving Clear Signs: For them is a dreadful penalty,- (Quran: 3.105)

The entire of the Quran does not describe differences of views, methods or opinions as disunity. It is the forceful imposition of views and oppression against those with differing views that is strongly condemned as “mischief makers”.

It is very superficial if UMNO was to regard itself as complying with Quran 3:104 simply because it was part of the government that had built many mosques and had aired various TV programs on “Islam”. Likewise, it is misleading of PAS to claim that it has complied with the same verse by giving endless ceramahs, insisting on the hijab for the women, banning alcohol in Shah Alam, etc.

Blind faith in the politicians? Taksub?

Both parties should ask this question: when was the last time they had ever requested for a tajdid of the syariah laws in this country to verify whether it is consistent with the times? More importantly, when did we ever undertake an exercise to determine whether the syariah laws in this country are consistent with the Quran and the Sunnah of the prophet? Do the politicians think that the ordinary Muslims do not have a duty to Allah to know this? Or, do the politicians from both sides of the divide expect the citizens to blindly accept (taksub) the politicians’ word that every single law passed with the tag “syaria” must necessarily be consistent with the Quran and the Sunnah?

If PAS and UMNO is genuinely serious about “unity in the name of Islam”, should they then not be equally responsibly mindful of the following verse that affects the ordinary Muslim citizen:

And behold! you come to us bare and alone as We created you for the first time: you have left behind you all (the favours) which We bestowed on you: We see not with you your intercessors whom you thought to be partners in your affairs: so now all relations between you have been cut off, and your (pet) fancies have left you in the lurch!" (Quran: 6:94)

My reading of the above verse tells me that it is incumbent on any responsible Muslim government to explain to the Muslim citizens the basis of any laws passed in the name of God. If “ordinary laws”, are debated heavily in Parliament, why do we not hear of any syariah laws being debated more carefully? Is not the duty to God more onerous?

The Firaun Mindset v Quranic Mindset

The fact is this: our country has yet to see a true reformer of Islamic thought. What we have are graduates who have specialized in “Islamic curricula” who keep repeating what they have learnt in their respective universities from their respective university lectures. They also adhere to an unwritten code of ethics which is common to all disciplines - do not challenge accepted academic thinking. It is a politically correct type of behaviour that is encouraged. This is primarily because of the entrenchment of mainstream thought solidly supported by mainstream institutions. Any alternative thoughts and views are immediately put down and it becomes personally dangerous for any true reformer.

Politicians of the like we have in our midst today are not reformers, especially in matters of faith. True reformers are never inhibited by norms or mainstream thinking. This is because it could very well be that the current patterns of thinking need reform! This requires long term effort. However, politicians often opt for short term measures that span from one election to the next and will not touch on matters that are not politically expedient. Hence, thinking and writing on Islam which may differ from the mainstream is not given prominence.

Do both UMNO and PAS have a Firaun mindset” as follows?

“Said Pharaoh: "Believe you in Him before I give you permission? Surely this is a trick which you have planned in the city to drive out its people: but soon shall you know (the consequences)”. (Quran: 7.123)

"Be sure I will cut off your hands and your feet on apposite sides, and I will cause you all to die on the cross." (Quran: 7.124)

As it is clear from the above verse, matters of faith in Egypt then must be cleared by the Pharaoh or his priests first. It must have his approval and permission. To deviate from Pharaoh’s religion is met with severe punishment since it is a State crime. The exercise of “religious duties and faith” during Pharaoh’s time is through total compulsion with the aid of State apparatus. There is no exercise of mercy, discussions, or differing views. What do you see happening in this country?

We must remember that all the syaria laws and the religious institutions in place today occurred during the Barisan Nasional’s rule. This will give Muslims an idea of BN’s role in “Islamic development” in the country. Further, since PAS has never questioned the syaria law as implemented in this country, they must be taken to acknowledge BN’s role.

PAS’s “Islamic State” v UMNO’s Islamic Malaysia

PAS has been speaking of its aim to establish an Islamic state in the country. Logically, this means that according to PAS, Malaysia is not an Islamic state. If we cut though the rhetoric, we will see that PAS’s idea of an Islamic State appears to be one where the State implements “hudud laws”. PAS sees Islam as a set of legal criminal rulings. It is as simple as that. However, matters may become complicated when we wish to consider what PAS considers as “hudud laws”. Speculations arise because to date PAS has yet to outline its idea of Islamic State!

The sad fact is that many ordinary Muslims do not wish to get into this debate on the excuse that they are “not well versed”. It never seemed to dawn on them that if they do not enter the debate, laws could very well be imposed on them under the tag of “syaria” but deviating from the Quran and Sunnah. This has happened in many so-called “Islamic countries”.

Coming back to PAS, since its inception for more than 50 years, one has to ask what example of “Islam” has it promoted? If we look at Kelantan which has been under PAS rule (Islamic rule?) for decades, can we say that it is a shining example of what “Islamic rule” is all about? How many other countries have come to Kelantan to learn and adopt its model of “Islamic administration”? Surely, if it is truly “Islamic”, it should be a shining example?

Rightly or wrongly, the perception that some Muslims have of PAS is this: it thinks its interpretation of Islam is the divine interpretation. But then again, this has become a common trait among modern day “ulamaks” as opposed to the learned, humble, classical ulemas of the “golden age of Islam”. Matters have become worse when religion is now being abused in the name of politics.

UMNO, on the other hand has declared this country to be an Islamic country. WE must recall that this announcement was first made by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Since then we had two other prime ministers who may not understand where Dr Mahathir was coming from. Hence, looking from purely an UMNO perspective, we need to ask: Do the UMNO members generally believe that Malaysia is an Islamic country? I think if we look at the frequency or the level of discourses held within UMNO on Islam, this question may be easily answered.

I hope I have raised several issues (there are many more) that need to be addressed to understand the nature of the so-called unity government between PAS and UMNO.

Is PAS and UMNO moving towards the direction of a “united ummah” because they are moved by the Quran and the Sunnah and wish to spread “the justice and mercy of Islam” to all Malaysians? Or is this just another political mechanism wrapped in “Islamic” language to promote elitist Malay political solidarity and control?

If the effort is genuine resulting from the awareness of Allah’s injunctions in the Quran, as a Muslim I welcome this move. If this is just a ploy to use religion purely for political ends, may God have mercy on the players involved. Leaders who had used God’s name in vain had been removed from power with humiliation.

"Such as took their religion to be mere amusement and play, and were deceived by the life of the world." That day shall We forget them as they forgot the meeting of this day of theirs, and as they were wont to reject Our signs”. (Quran: 7.51)

“For We had certainly sent unto them a Book, based on knowledge, which We explained in detail,- a guide and a mercy to all who believe”. (Quran: 7:52)


Peace. (as usual, I stand to be corrected, of course).

Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat & Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek Unite = United MCA.

“Datuk Seri Ong Tee keat and Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek set aside differences for the sake of party” reports TheStar Online.

The amicable resolution of disputes between Datuk Seri Ong Tee keat and Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek is most welcome as it has a national impact via MCA. Since this morning, I have received calls and at least 12 smses saying that the peaceful closing of ranks was good. Two of the calls were from my friends in the Chinese clan societies.

Outside of MCA, OTK, as he is popularly known, is seen as a people’s leader. He is seen as forthright, transparent, principled and courageous – taking up challenges which many politicians will rather avoid. His quest in pushing ahead with the PKFZ issue is respected by most thinking citizens. In the heights of the problem between Dr Cua and OTK, Dr Chua reportedly said the following:

“The way I look at it, PKFZ is a problem that needs to get resolved but Tee Keat is projecting himself as a hero. A lot of people are involved in the problem, and since it is a transport issue, MCA ministers are also involved. But that does not mean the party is involved”.

The point is, PKFZ is potentially “hot” and dangerous for any MCA politician to handle and yet OTK proceeded with it because he is serious in reforming the way MCA works.

There are already rumours that possibly his quest against PKFZ is possibly one of the reasons why there were “sinister moves” to oust him from MCA, the EGM notwithstanding. Such a rumour does not hold well for MCA because as Dr Chua was reported to have rightly pointed out, there is no use being members of a party if they lose the election. This is a practical political approach.

Again to quote Dr Chua, “politics is the art of making the possible, impossible and making the impossible, possible” or something to that effect. Dr Chua, being a seasoned politician knows exactly what he is saying.

Putting aside, Dr Chua’s unfortunate past event which he has admitted and apologized in public, he had garnered enough support from MCA delegates to demonstrate that he is relevant and needed by the party. Dr Chua, for many years has been seen as a grass root leader who works hard and has capability. This entire MCA “crisis will surely show the political influence that Dr Chua still wields in the party. His willingness therefore to reconcile is definitely gentlemanly and n the interest of the party.

I do not have much to say about the MCA central committee members who dramatically renegade on their support to OTK at the height of the crisis. This matter correctly should be left to the judgement of the MCA members and their delegates.

If OTK and Dr Chua really work together for the betterment of MCA, it is likely that MCA may emerge as the strongest component of BN as UMNO still has quite a bit of work to do internally as well as on its public perception of patronage, cronyism and umnoputraism.

As I have written before, I see OTK as a leader with a truly multi racial outlook while safeguarding the interests of the Chinese community. This will be consistent with the current UMNO leadership who are also moving towards that direction publicly. Further, this resolution of the crisis will earn the respect of the other component parties. OTK too must weigh his public pledge to resign against the larger demands of the general public who would like him to continue serving as the MCA president. The political climate does not allow for egos. OTK should do the right thing and remain as president to reform the MCA for the betterment of Malaysian political climate. Dr Chua, with his huge grass root following should be properly utilized too.

Peace !

President UMNO's Speech Sept. 2009

You can read it here.

Peace !

Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia???

An initiative called "Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia" (SABM) was officially launched recently by some concerned citizens. Had a long chat with Haris Ibrahim, one of the core founders of this initiative. Sounded good and relevant to the country. Sounded like a Malaysian project by Raperas. Here is the SABM charter that I lifted off their website. Read it for yourselves - and be the judge and make up your minds.

"Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia Charter


PREAMBLE:

Recognising that our beloved Malaysia is:


* A sovereign and independent member of the global community of nations;


* A polity founded on the principles of a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy;


* A multi-ethnic, multi-faith and multi-cultural society formed on the basis of a shared choice of membership;


* A country built and nurtured by the immeasurable efforts and invaluable contributions of all her people, past and present;


* A nation where her people are inextricably bound by a shared history, heritage, a common interest and destiny;


* A land blessed with rich natural and human resources.


And fully subscribing to the immutable and universal principle that we are all of a single human race and born equal;


DECLARATION

We, Anak Bangsa Malaysia, hereby declare that we are first and foremost Malaysians and Malaysia is our Home. We aspire to be the conscience of the nation and therefore pledge to:


1. Nurture the spirit of ‘Unity is Strength’ as enunciated in our Merdeka and Malaysia Day proclamations;


2. Honour and Uphold the Federal Constitution as the Supreme Law of the Land;


3. Defend the constitutional provisions of fundamental liberties and equal rights for all citizens;


4. Respect our fellow citizens irrespective of ethnicity, faith, colour, class or gender;


5. Oppose all forms of prejudice, discrimination, oppression, persecution and injustice;


6. Cherish our multi-cultural heritage and celebrate our rich diversity; and


7. Respect and safeguard our natural and built environment;



COMMITMENT

We, Anak Bangsa Malaysia, herewith undertake to:


1. Engender a National Mindset to think and act first and foremost as Malaysians;


2. Engage the Hearts and Minds of our people to rise above the social constructs and divisive forces of ethnicity, faith, colour, class or gender;


3. Promote the humanitarian Values of inclusiveness, equality and justice for all;


4. Advance the principles of Good Governance, namely, stewardship, integrity, accountability and transparency;


5. Educate our people to be responsible and caring Global Citizens contributing to peace, prosperity and sustainable development.



We are committed to actualising the spirit and substance of Anak Bangsa Malaysia – "One People, One Nation". Towards this end, we are determined to take this message to the PEOPLE.



25th April 2009".

Bagan Pinang - PAS rejected?

Of course there are a host of many reasons why PAS lost. Of course too that the group that lost may suddenly not think so well of the voters implying that they condone corrupt leaders. Some others from the camp that lost even go to the extent of accusing that the Malaysian voters like corrupt leaders. Whether that is so or not, I am sure cannot be judged by from one by-election. But the point is this - when they were winning, they acclaimed "people power". See? Politicians love double talk because what is important to them is only - to win elections. Not you or me - the People.

At least YB Lim Kit Siang was the only one it seems to suggest that Pakatan Rakyat should do some introspection.

But what I had intended to write was something else - Malays in Bagan Pinang rejected PAS. MALAYS. MUSLIMS. So, it appears that the Malay Muslim voters are not convinced of PAS's "Islamic" brand. They have said no to "pemerintahan ulama" ala PAS.

This in one sense is a good sign because it may mean that the "brand" of "Islam" cannot be easily commercialized or politicized by business and political opportunists. Malay Muslims are becoming more discerning when anyone who appears like pseudo Arab wants their attention in the name of Islam.

PAS even went alone in this by-election without PKR and DAP.In PAS language, "a purely Islamic campaign" without PKR and DAP! Itu pun kalah. So, it is clear that...tak lah wajib undi PAS! Melayu Bagan Pinang tak takut ke tak masuk syurga? Kan UMNO tu agama suku, politik suku? Seharusnya jadi macam pucuk pimpinan PAS, politik suku, thagut suku. (sahabat-sahabat saya dalam PAS, saya tidak maksudkan saudara-saudari. Kita tetap bersaudara sebagai saudara Islam dan umat manusia, Insha Allah).

Frankly, if I am in Bagan Pinang, I will reject PAS because I am a Muslim and I fear Allah swt. Kalau DAP...hmmm...boleh lah fikir-fikir sikit. Kalau PKR? Selagi ada ... tak payah lah! At least, in my view they do not distort Islam and YB Lim Guan Eng is working hard instead of showing off how religious he is.

I seriously think that we should pass laws that prohibit political parties from using religion as part of their name. Imagine, with PAS losing - Parti ISLAM seMalaysia - implies that Malay Muslims have rejected an Islamic party. Tak masuk akal langsung dan memberi gambaran yang salah terhadap Islam serta pengundi Melayu Muslim di Bagan Pinang.



Peace!

Happy Deepavali !!!

I wish all the HIndu visitors:

HAPPY DEEPAVALI !

MCA EGM SHOCKER! WHO IS THE THIRD FORCE???

The MCA Egm today came with with shocker. Datuk Seri Ong Tee Kiat was indeed very brave to go ahead with the resolutions, including the one that allowed the delegates to pass a vote of no confidence against him.

Indeed, by a margin f 14 votes, they voted no confidence in his leadership. This must come as a shocker to many, including me. I am sad as I know the man personally and I think he has done very well in his leadership. He is a multi-racial leader and very proactive in his actions. With this vote, it is left to see whether he will continue to lead the MCA as according to the party constitution, only two-thirds votes can remove the party President.

Chua Soi Lek is also not voted back in to the post.

The question is: who is this new "Third Force" in MCA and can it help consolidate Barisan Nasional?

Whatever the results, I salute your brother OTK for your willingness to walk your talk! Now, that is leadership!

Peace.

YB Manoharan’s surprise Birthday Bash.

YB Mano, the State Assemblyman for Kota Alam Shah, was surprised to see many of his friends there. It showed on his face – and he certainly seemed touched. I have known Mano for many years as a cheerful, soft spoken, helpful and generally quiet guy (hence my surprise when he went into politics!). When his wife kindly invited me to the birthday dinner, I gladly accepted. It has been a habit every year for me to call his kids or the reverse to wish each other happy birthday because we share the same date! So when Mano was in detention under ISA, his kids were uppermost in my mind.


He was asked to say a few words. He thanked everyone present and recounted his experience in Kamunting detention camp. He said he was grateful to be able to celebrate his birthday with family and friends - as every citizen should be able to.



Mano cutting the birthday cake, flanked by his wife Puspha, daughter, Shivaranjini (12)and sons, Hariharan (12) and Ganendra (10). They looked very happy that night to have their father with them on his birthday.

There was a surprise announcement - the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu had dropped by to attend Mano's birthday party! Wow!



His mother and one of his sons, Hariharan.







Mano, may you and your family be always blessed. And may you serve the Nation well.
Peace!

ISA : Necessary Preventive Powers that any self-respecting Government should have.

This article was written by someone as a response to Tun Dr Mahathir's article on ISA on Che Det's blog.

ISA : Necessary Preventive Powers that any self-respecting Government should have.

by Ceylonese Lawyer

The nations that tout themselves with the most advanced of civilizations and who claim to have achieved the greatest degree of civility seem to be unable to let go of what they would regard as - the ultimate weapon- the nuclear bomb. The cold war is over. There is no enemy with missiles pointed at their civilian centers. Yet not a single leader in Western Europe or North America is prepared to say - that the time has come to destroy these weapons which may harm persons who have not been found guilty on a beyond reasonable doubt standard.

Perhaps they feel that the security of their people necessitates the retention of such an array of weaponry, despite the fact that its need has diminished and that its dangers have grown.

In our context, the danger of this nation being undermined by acts of instigation is real. These acts can, when viewed singularly be regarded as innocent enough- standing on a cow's head so what. But a combination of these acts coupled with the actions and reactions that follow will have as their probable consequence the fanning of racial and religious sensitivities. The momentum that such a spiral could gather would be so great and the results would be so horrifying that one can in hindsight even wonder how did something seemingly so innocent have caused such harm, pain and destruction. Who would have thought that a single assassination would plunge the world into World War I, who would have thought that a group of angry young men would force their way into government and pave the way to World War II as Nazis and facists, who would have thought that one of the two nations formed by a religous community - Pakistan would be plunged into an ever deepening darkness, who would have thought that the innocent socialist philosophies of a simple man would lead a nation to the killing fields.

Likewise if we reflect on May 13th or any other such event, it is difficult to pin point a cause, which is so definitive in character and purpose that it may be regarded as a crime. Yet the presence of such a combination of harmful ingredients necessitates action by any self-respecting government. ISA gives the government that power. This is not a power that can be relegated to a Court. A Court can act when there are criminal charges that may be proven on a prima facie basis and then on a beyond reasonable doubt standard. But when a nation is confronted with a latent threat, the power and the responsibility falls to its democratically elected government to exercise the ultimate power -ISA. That government then stands accountable to Parliament. But as a Government duly elected it has a solemn to prevent the untold harm that may otherwise unfold. As a democratic nation the government will be judged by its actions its honesty and its ability to hold its own in the court of public opinion.

As fate would have it, when the power of ISA is exercised and the threat is extinguished people can with hindsight contend cynically that the power was abused or that the harm was contrived and was never real. This is the burden of duty that a government will have to shoulder. We have to face the fact that when faced with a latent threat to security, the only way to prove to the world that the threat exists is to allow it to fester, to grow and to manifest itself. But can we chance that. What may seem to be an innocent enough caricature, sarcasm of rulers and religion can have untold consequences.

As a citizen, I am mindful of the peace that we enjoy and which we cherish and I would like my government to have at its disposal an instrument that will enable it to intervene and halt a threat to the peace. I would want my government to be able to do so without having to convince some judge that the threat is real. I voted for my government not the judiciary. When faced with such a threat it is my government I turn to. Look around us - can we not see how hard it is to build a peace and how easy it is to tear it asunder. There a nations in this world today that are not even the shadow of their former selves, there are nations who have become ungovernable and we now have a new jargon - "failed states". I suppose at that point there would be evidence beyond reasonable doubt that instigation had been a foot.

I don't know about the others - but I don't want my government to wait until then to realize that something is wrong.

IF WE JUST HEAR AND NEVER LISTEN……IT MAY LEAD TO OPPRESSION AND MISERY

Image thanks to this web site

There was a puddle of water on the ground. I was moved to peek into it and suddenly I found myself pulled deep into it. I was falling weightlessly and perceived Hime floating along whispering the following thoughts into my mind:

“You can have all the discussions that you want. After all, while there is a mouth, there is always the inclination to want to talk. If you observe carefully at people in public places, they are always talking. The lips never seem to stop. It keeps moving and keeps making sounds. It leaves you wondering that people have so much to say about so many things.

You can continue reading it here

Peace !

Busy with Living or just busy?

And there I was walking through the forest of life in my half-wake moments when I chanced upon Hime.

Hime said, “have you seen the one who busies himself in life?”

You may continue reading it here.


Peace !

OBAMA: I was actually black before the elections!!!

President Barack Obama on David Letterman's show:



Peace !

PIETY AND PLACES OF WORSHIP

by Dr Chandra Muzaffar

The recent cow head incident has brought to the fore certain important prerequisites for the maintenance of peace and harmony in a multi-religious society like ours.

One, an appreciation of the sensitivities of each and every religious community is fundamental. These sensitivities may be at variance with one’s own beliefs but recognizing them for what they are, is a pre-condition for ensuring inter-ethnic peace in a multi-religious society.

Two, when these sensitivities are ignored, or worse, transgressed, it is individuals and groups from the offending community who should be more vocal in condemning the behaviour of their fellow religionists. This will have a more positive impact upon interreligious ties than the denunciations of people from the aggrieved community. It is commendable that in the cow head incident a number of Muslim groups took a firm stand against the despicable action of a misguided few from their own community who had clearly violated Islamic teachings.

I have no doubt at all that if police investigations reveal that those responsible for the pig head incidents in Malacca and Kuala Lumpur are from some non-Muslim community, there will be individuals and groups from the community who will condemn such debased conduct.

Three, while Malaysians are generally conscious of the red lines that should not be crossed on certain matters pertaining to religion, the level of understanding and empathy among the different communities is still appallingly low. On a variety of issues ranging from education to economics, misconception and distrust continue to impact negatively upon ethnic relations. This is why public policies that seek to redress ethnic grievances, buttressed by effective public education, are so critical at this point in time in enhancing inter-community understanding.

If there was empathy among the communities, the question of relocating a Hindu
temple in Shah Alam would have been less controversial. No one would have argued
that a minority religious community cannot have its own place of worship in a locality where the majority professes a different religion. Right through history, Muslim Rulers --- with a few exceptions—saw it as their duty to protect the temples, churches and synagogues of minority faiths, in accordance with Quranic principles.

By the same token, in a number of societies where Hindus or Buddhists or Christians are in the majority, Muslim minorities have been able build their mosques and practise their faith in peace. Malaysia itself is an outstanding example of a country where the majority dichotomy has had no effect upon the construction of places of worship. If we were influenced by such myopic thinking, there would be no gurdwaras in Malaysia since Sikhs are a tiny minority everywhere in the country!

Of course, in any multi-religious society there will have to be unambiguous rules governing the construction, maintenance and expansion of places of worship. These rules should be just and fair to all religious communities. Equally important, they should be enforced effectively. The lack of effective enforcement has in some instances contributed to inter-religious friction and tension.

From a broader perspective, while it is important to acknowledge the significance of a place of worship to the religious life of a people, it would be wrong to assume that a place of worship is proof of the piety of a people. We have to get rid of the idea that there is a direct equation between the two. True piety is reflected in faith in God and in good deeds. In the ultimate analysis, it is deeds that mirror values such as justice and compassion and kindness that really count.

It is not just kindness and compassion to our fellow human beings that is indicative of piety. Showing kindness and compassion to animals is also regarded as a noble virtue in all our religions. This virtue was one of the edicts of that illustrious Buddhist Ruler of antiquity, Asoka. . The Qur’an even recognizes the rights of animals as illustrated in the story of the Prophet Salih and the people of Thamud. It explains why early Muslim jurists not only formulated rules and regulations aimed at protecting the welfare of animals but also prohibited animal torture. This is why stomping and spitting upon the
slaughtered head of a cow with venom is an unconscionable act.

The time has come for more individuals and groups of conscience to speak out against those attitudes and actions within their own religious community that violate the humane values and principles embodied in their respective faiths.
Professor Chandra Muzaffar is President of International Movement for a Just World, and also Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Yayasan 1Malaysia.

17 September 2009.

SELAMAT HARI RAYA

To all Raperas and readers of this blog:

DEAR FRIENDS, SELAMAT HARI RAYA

AND

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL !!!

Peace !

YOU WILL LOVE THESE GUYS!

You will love these guys – Suleiman mirza and mate. These two ordinary guys with extra-ordinary talents given the chance to express themselves.

Britons, you are great for allowing these two ordinary guys to achieve their dreams. Suleiman Mirza, a minority British of Pakistani descent especially is so talented! He has achieved his impossible dreams!

I love societies that allow young people to express their talents. Good job Britain’s Got Talent!!! God bless you all!

You can watch them here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaBsshIYT2w

Shouldn’t MIC’s place in the BN be reconsidered?

It is bound to happen –when you have a leader far too long at the helm of a political party, it mutates into his personal property. Saaaamyyy Velluuuu is still around when Ling Liong Sik and Dr Mahathir have already long given up their post to some other presidents.

The latest “amat biadap, kurang ajar, tak sedar diri” statement by one unknown MIC delegate to garland Tun with slippers may just be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. Not only UMNO leaders, but many BN members and non-partisan citizens are very upset with Samy Vellu, MIC and that unknown worm from somewhere.

I was flabbergasted when the papers reported that Samy Vellu said “outsiders” should not comment on MIC elections referring to Tun Mahathir’s statement. Hello, Datuk Samy, Tun Mahathir is not an outsider, he is a statesman and he can certainly comment on anything he wants. You have a right to accept or reject but you certainly do not have the right to be rude unless you can survive outside the Barisan Nasional. (which many believe you cannot.). This is the man that lost the Sungai Siput election right?

I recall reading this:

“With the damming defeat, the MIC now becomes the only party, with its top leaders -- president, deputy president (Datuk G. Palanivel) and three-vice presidents (Datuk S. Sothinathan, Datuk S. Veerasingam and Tan Sri Dr K.S. Nijhar) -- will not have parliamentary seats to their names”.
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=319468


The anger that MIC has succeeded in causing over the blogosphere can be seen from some of the posts like below:

Syed Akbar Ali says:

“Someone should tell loud mouth Samy that Tun Dr Mahathir has every right to comment on anything and everything in this country. As an elder statesman Dr Mahathir certainly has the right to say what he wants”. http://syedsoutsidethebox.blogspot.com/

Read also:

http://apanama2020.blogspot.com/2009/09/who-is-bloody-bastard.html

http://bigdogdotcom.wordpress.com/2009/09/15/sudah-sampai-masa-bn-kaji-semula-kedudukan-mic/

In my mingling, I find that top UMNO leaders are upset with the slippers incident and some have gone public with their views:

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/articles/20090914202053/Article:

"Razali, who is also the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, said Umno Youth felt that "such an act does not help to divert public attention from the actual position of the MIC. Respect must be earned and not demanded."

http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2009&dt=0915&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Muka_Hadapan&pg=mh_01.htm

"Naib Presiden UMNO, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein berkata, jika pun ada perkara yang tidak dipersetujui dengan kenyataan bekas Perdana Menteri itu atau mana-mana pemimpin sekalipun, seharusnya asal usul, peradaban dan nilai sesuatu bangsa tidak harus dilupakan".


"Ketua UMNO Bahagian Cheras, Datuk Syed Ali Alhabshee dalam kenyataan akhbarnya turut mendesak MIC meminta maaf secara terbuka kepada Dr. Mahathir, orang Melayu dan ahli UMNO keseluruhannya.

''Saya cabar Presiden MIC, Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu, jika dia benar-benar ikhlas supaya memohon maaf bagi pihak MIC di atas sikap kurang ajar perwakilan tersebut".

http://thoughtsintangents.blogspot.com/2009/09/mic-now-in-real-trouble.html

Akram Shah who feels that MIC is now in trouble answers his own question: “

So to my own question, whether MIC is in real trouble now, I would say yes it is! With DS Samy's grip on the party clear, the community may give up on a political solution to its woes and look for alternatives. The alternative may be political, but in this case, DS Samy's likely right in guessing an Indian political rival to MIC is some years in coming. However, Indians may choose to move primarily through community NGOs, like the Chinese, which would risk making MIC an irrelevance.
That Hindraf rose to prominence so quickly, putting aside its racist rhetoric, dramatic claims and mob behaviour, is indicative of not just the role NGOs can fulfill but also the readiness of the Indian community to support them!

Questions have been asked for long: how relevant is MIC in uplifting the woes of the marginalized Indians? The Hindraf episode shocked the Nation with the plight of the Indians being exposed and the dislike substantial number of Indians has for MIC.

Probably it is time for Barisan Nasional to work out a different formula for Indian representation in the Government and to address the problems peculiar to the Indian community without the MIC.

And one more thing: Samy Vellu must publicly apologize to Tun Dr Mahathir if he wants to dispel the rumors that this event is stage-managed to deflect MIC’s internal woes and decline.

Peace!

BACK TO NO MODERATION OF POSTINGS

Gals/Guys,

Since a frequent reader of Rapera blog, namely "Frees69" has made some protests on moderation, I have reverted back to "no moderation of comments. This means that anonymous postings cannot be posted. This also means that each of those who post must now bear personal responsibility for what is posted.

thanks & Peace !